LETTERS: Coming Out Days chalk writing

To the Editor: The chalk writings are there primarily for those members of the Penn community who are beginning to struggle with a sexual orientation which differs from the "norm" that is so often presented by society. The students who left these messages in darkness want to reach out to closeted and questioning people, and let them know that they are not alone -- there are other gay people on this campus, and they do not need to live in fear. The University, as well as many gay individuals, offer many means of support and understanding. I will admit, however, that some of the messages were directed more towards those who discriminate against homosexuals. Although this strays from the primary reason behind the chalking, it is a way for these gay students to express their pride in who they are, and hopefully encourage some people to rethink their homophobic views. The point is, the chalkings were not necessarily directed toward open-minded people like Aneed, who already understand the need for acceptance and civil rights for gay people. I appreciate Aneed's honesty in his letter, especially considering his own observation that comments on "sensitive topics" often backfire. I also thank him for continuing a discussion on Coming Out Days, which I'm sure is one of the goals behind the events. However, I will comment on his comparison of homosexual and religious pressure -- although an interesting observation, there is a fundamental difference. People can choose religion and beliefs. People CANNOT choose their sexual orientation. They can, however, choose to accept it. Mike LaMonaca Engineering '97 Unfair UA elections To the Editor: This decision for new freshman elections is insane! ("UA election results thrown out; frosh to revote", DP, 10/10/97) It was hard enough to get people to go vote the first time, I'm sure it will be even more difficult to get people to go vote again. The NEC's decision for a new election was very unexpected. I doubt the candidates who filed complaints had any intention of such a drastic outcome. I think the only reason complaints were filed against the NEC is because we weren't going to pretend that we didn't notice their mistakes. They mess-up my first name on the ballots, and more importantly they left out two candidates statements in the DP -- that they supposedly lost or forgot. I think it is really unfortunate that the candidates and student body will have to suffer through another week of campaigning and grueling madness because of their mistake. Having new elections is unfair for everyone. I don't think unfairness is ever justified by more unfairness. Eileen Munoz College '01